Diving into the world of shonen manga is like embarking on a thrilling adventure filled with action, camaraderie, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re new to manga or a seasoned reader, there’s always something exciting to discover in the shonen genre.
From intense battles and epic quests to stories about friendship, determination, and personal growth, shonen manga offers a wide range of experiences that can captivate any reader. It’s no wonder these stories often inspire some of themost popular animeout there!
Today, we’ve rounded up some of the best shonen manga to read right now, covering a variety of themes and styles. Whether you’re into mystery, sports, or just looking for a good laugh, there’s a shonen manga here that’s perfect for you.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
A Journey of Reflection
Elf mage Frieren, outliving her comrades, embarks on a new journey to fulfill their last wishes, exploring the meaning of life and mortality.
If you’re into shonen manga but crave something different, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a great choice. This manga picks up where most stories end—after the heroes have defeated the Demon King. But for Frieren, an immortal elf mage, the real journey is just beginning.
Frieren beautifully explores themes of time, loss, and the meaning of life as Frieren grapples with outliving her human comrades. Her quest to fulfill their last wishes leads to an emotional, reflective adventure that sets this manga apart from the usual high-energy shonen fare.
The story’s unique perspective and character-driven narrative make it one of themust-read manga of all time. The artwork captures the passing of time and the bittersweet nature of Frieren’s journey, drawing readers into a world that’s as poignant as it is visually stunning.
Whether you’re adding to your collection or looking forgifts for anime lovers, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a thoughtful, engaging story that stays with you long after you’ve finished it.
Kaiju No.8
Shonen Masterpiece with a Monstrous Twist
Kafka Hibino dreams of joining the Japan Defense Force to fight kaiju, but a sudden transformation turns him into one. Now labeled Kaiju No. 8, Kafka must navigate his new identity while pursuing his dream of protecting Japan from monstrous threats. Will he achieve his goal despite this unexpected twist?
Kaiju No. 8 has everything that makes a great shonen—action, humor, a relatable protagonist, and of course, epic monster battles. But what sets this manga apart is its unique twist on the classic kaiju story.
The story centers on Kafka Hibino, a guy who’s spent his life cleaning up the aftermath of kaiju attacks while dreaming of joining the Japan Defense Force. But just when he gets a second chance to pursue that dream, Kafka undergoes a freak transformation and becomes a kaiju himself!
Now, instead of fighting alongside his childhood friend Mina, who’s a captain in the Defense Force, he’s on their neutralization list as Kaiju No. 8. This manga mixes intense action with a fresh storyline that keeps you hooked. Kafka’s struggle with his new identity and his determination to still protect Japan adds depth to the story, making it more than just a monster-bashing adventure. Plus, the series has been gaining so much popularity that it’s only a matter of time before wesee anime Funko Pop figuresof Kafka and the rest of the characters.
Chainsaw Man
A Wild Ride You Won’t Forget
Denji, a young and broke devil hunter, is revived by his pet devil Pochita after being betrayed and killed. Now, fused with Pochita, he becomes the powerful and dangerous Chainsaw Man, battling devils to survive in a harsh, unforgiving world.
This next series is a chaotic mix of gritty action, dark humor, and a protagonist who’s as unpredictable as the story itself. Chainsaw Man follows the story of Denji, a young devil hunter who’s down on his luck and drowning in debt. His only companion is his pet devil, Pochita, a cute little chainsaw dog that’s both adorable and deadly.
Denji’s life takes a sharp turn when he’s betrayed and left for dead—only to be revived by Pochita, who merges with him to create the fearsome Chainsaw Man. With chainsaws for arms and a thirst for revenge, Denji becomes a force to be reckoned with, taking on devils in a way no one’s seen before.
Chainsaw Man has quickly become a fan favorite, and it’s easy to see why. It’s wild, it’s gritty, and it’s packed with surprises. So, if you’re ready for a manga that’s a little rough around the edges but endlessly entertaining, this is the one to check out.
Sakamoto Days
The Hitman’s Hilarious Return to Action
Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary hitman, now leads a quiet life running a neighborhood store with his family. But when his past resurfaces, he’s forced to confront old enemies and return to the world of assassins. Can Sakamoto protect his peaceful life, or will his deadly skills pull him back in?
What makes Sakamoto Days one of the best shonen mangas to read right now is its perfect balance of action and humor. Sakamoto might have left the assassin life behind, but he hasn’t lost his edge. The action scenes are packed with creativity, showcasing Sakamoto’s resourcefulness and skill, even if he’s not in his prime anymore. But what really sets this manga apart is how it injects humor into every situation—whether Sakamoto is fighting off a hitman in his store or trying to keep his double life hidden from his family.
The characters are instantly likable, with Sakamoto leading the charge as a relatable, if unlikely, hero. He’s a family man who just wants a quiet life, but his past won’t let him go so easily. The story keeps you hooked with its mix of high-stakes action and laugh-out-loud moments, making it a joy to read from start to finish.
Sakamoto Days is also filled with little nuggets of lore and backstory that flesh out the world and characters, adding depth without slowing down the pace. Whether you’re a fan ofaction-packed storiesor just love a good laugh, this manga has something for everyone.
Undead Unluck
Wild Ride of Unlikely Heroes
Fuuko Izumo, cursed with the ability Unluck, accidentally causes misfortune wherever she goes. Ready to end it all, she meets Andy, an undead man desperate to die. Together, they embark on a chaotic journey to find a way to trigger Unluck powerful enough to grant Andy his final wish, while evading a mysterious organization hunting them down.
Undead Unluck stands out in the shonen genre with its blend of dark humor, relentless action, and a unique storyline that constantly keeps you guessing. The chemistry between Fuuko and Andy is both hilarious and heartwarming—Andy’s reckless antics contrast perfectly with Fuuko’s cautious nature, creating a dynamic that’s as entertaining as it is touching. The manga’s ability to balance wild, chaotic scenes with moments of genuine emotion makes it a fresh and engaging read.
The series doesn’t shy away from diving into the absurd, but it’s also packed with intriguing mysteries. As the story unfolds, the introduction of a secret organization adds a layer of suspense and raises the stakes for our unlucky pair. The creative ways Andy tries to trigger Fuuko’s Unluck are always a highlight, showcasing the manga’s clever writing and imaginative scenarios.
If you’re in the mood for a manga that breaks the mold, Undead Unluck is a must-read. It’s chaotic, funny, and full of surprises—making it one of the best Shonen series to dive into right now. Whether you’re a longtime manga fan or just looking for something new, this series offers a wild ride you won’t forget.
Akane-banashi
A Tale of Tradition, Talent, and Tenacity
Akane Osaki, determined to avenge her father, dives into the world of rakugo, the traditional Japanese art of storytelling. As she begins her journey from novice to master, Akane faces challenges, scandals, and intense competition while balancing her high school life and passion for rakugo, all to prove her father’s legacy.
Akane-banashi introduces readers to the world of rakugo, a traditional Japanese art form of storytelling. The story follows Akane Osaki, a young girl with a fiery determination to avenge her father, Shinta Arakawa, who was unfairly expelled from his path to becoming a top-rank rakugo performer, or shin’uchi. Fueled by her father’s passion and her own deep love for rakugo, Akane sets out on a challenging journey to master the craft and prove her father’s worth.
The manga offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of rakugo, a lesser-known but deeply respected art form. Readers get to see not just the performances, but also the rigorous training, the politics, and the passion that goes into becoming a rakugo master. The character dynamics are another highlight, especially Akane’s interactions with her father’s former teacher, Shiguma Arakawa, and her budding rivalry with his other apprentices.
This manga is a refreshing and culturally rich addition to the shonen genre. Its focus on rakugo sets it apart, while Akane’s journey will resonate with anyone who has ever fought to prove themselves.
FAQ
What shonen manga is recommended for fans of sports and competition?
Haikyuu!! is an excellent choice for fans of sports, focusing on the competitive world of high school volleyball with inspiring teamwork and personal growth. Plus, you can find plenty ofHaikyuu Funko Pop figuresto show off your favorite characters!
What shonen manga is ideal for readers who enjoy mystery and psychological elements?
If you’re a fan of intricate plots and mind games, several shonen manga offer a blend of mystery and psychological depth:
